transfix

verb

trans·​fix tran(t)s-ˈfiks How to pronounce transfix (audio)
transfixed; transfixing; transfixes
Synonyms of transfix

transitive verb

1
: to hold motionless by or as if by piercing
he stood transfixed by her gaze
2
: to pierce through with or as if with a pointed weapon : impale
transfixion
tran(t)s-ˈfik-shən How to pronounce transfix (audio)
noun

Synonyms of transfix

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Examples of transfix in a Sentence

transfixed the inanimate butterfly specimens to the collection board
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
One kitten stared transfixed through the glass while the other, unfazed, was more interested in darting around playfully. — ABC News, 6 Oct. 2026 The child was transfixed, continued to add details and almost subconsciously used increasingly complex language throughout the activity. — Jeff Beck, Forbes.com, 28 Sep. 2026 Now, instead of being mostly riveted to Mahomes, defenses figured to be transfixed by what to expect. — Kansas City Star, 24 Sep. 2026 Eventually, he would be transfixed by the image of Erin Everly, who would be equally transfixed on the other side of the glass. — Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone, 15 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for transfix

Word History

Etymology

Latin transfixus, past participle of transfigere, from trans- + figere to fasten, pierce — more at fix

First Known Use

1590, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of transfix was in 1590

Rhymes for transfix

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Browse Nearby Words

transfinite
transfix
transform
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Transfix.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/transfix. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

transfix

verb
trans·​fix tran(t)s-ˈfiks How to pronounce transfix (audio)
1
: to pierce through with or as if with a pointed weapon
2
: to hold motionless by or as if by piercing
stood transfixed by her gaze
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